What to do when there is nothing to do...

School is out, work is slow and everyone is itching for something exciting to do. Sometimes in our small, but always growing city, it might seem like there is nothing to do during these summer months. Below is some inspiration for your next week day or weekend adventure for families, couples and even some personal time!

Family Time

Float-N-Movies: The City of Auburn is excited to bring you a movie series that combines some pool time and a family friendly movie all in one awesome night! Bring a pool float and find the perfect spot to enjoy a movie. Admission is $2 per person or FREE with a 2015 Splash Pass. Join them at Samford Pool on June 11 for A Lego Movie, July 9 for Paddington and August 13 for Muppets Most Wanted. All movies begin at 8:30 p.m.

Summer Swing Concert Series: The City of Opelika is bringing you the sounds of summer with their popular concert series at the Municipal Park in Opelika. The concert is held every Tuesday at 7 p.m. now through August 4. The concert series features a wide variety of musical entertainment including Gospel, Jazz, R&B, Praise and Worship, Oldies, Country, Big Band Swing, Folk and Community Band music. With concessions by the Opelika Band Boosters, complimentary lemonade from CharterBank and the Kona Ice Truck, you are sure to have some family fun that promises to be memorable.

Don't forget activities that are available at all times of the year, but are great summertime activities:

• Carmike Tiger 13 and Carmike 14
• Cyberzone/Bouncezone (www.cyberzone334.com)
• The City of Auburn community pools (www.auburnalabama.org/pools)
• Municipal Park in Opelika
• Hickory Dickory Park in Auburn
• Auburn Lanes Bowling Alley (www.amf.com/auburnlanesal)
• Chewacla State Park
• Scutter Putters Miniature golf (call 334-745-9393)
• Spirited Art Auburn (www.spiritedart.com)

For the Couple

Whether you have kids or you don't, every couple needs some time to yourselves. Below are some ideas for dates during the day and night!

Jule Collins Smith Museum of Fine Art: Spend the afternoon exploring your artistic side! Start out at the museum's cafe. The cafe serves lunch from 11 a.m.-2 p.m. and features light, freshly prepared salads, Italian Panini sandwiches and seasonal soups and entrees. After lunch, explore the wonderful exhibitions featured in the museum. For more information on exhibitions and collections, please visit www.jcsm.auburn.edu!

Wine Sampling at The Overall Company: The Overall Company would like you and your significant other to come enjoy a free wine sampling on Saturday, June 6 from 7:30-10 p.m. Head to downtown Opelika and have dinner at one of the fabulous restaurants in the heart of downtown before you head to sample wines from The Overall Company's wine list. For more information, please visit www.overallco.com.

A Downtown Auburn Night: Don't let a little construction steer you away from a magical night in Downtown Auburn. With dining to satisfy any taste bud, and after dinner treats for any mood, you are sure to be on cloud nine. For a more romantic setting, head to Hamilton's, Amsterdam, Ariccia or Acre to give your taste buds a thrill, and then head to Piccolo or Avondale for a few drinks to top off the night. If casual is more your style, try Cheeburger Cheebuger or Moe's BBQ for a laid back dinner, and then head to Steel City Pops for a refreshing treat to satisfy that sweet tooth.

First Fridays in Downtown Opelika: On the First Friday of each month, downtown Opelika shops will stay open until 8 p.m. to give you time to grab dinner and do some shopping afterwards. With music and entertainment on the street corners, this is a great way to relax and enjoy the atmosphere.

In need of some "YOU" time:

Sometimes all you need is some peace and quiet and time to yourself. Here are a few ideas to give you that much needed life break!

Walking Trails at Kiesel Park: Sometimes the best way to clear your mind is to take a walk and breathe in the fresh air. Kiesel Park offers a 2 1/4 mile walking trail and is dog friendly, so feel free to take your four-legged friend along to listen to you.

Farmer's Markets: If you are like me, sometimes the best therapy is retail therapy, and what better to shop for than fresh produce. Luckily, both Auburn and Opelika have fabulous Farmer's Markets during the summer. The Opelika Main Street Farmer's Market is held at the Courthouse Square in Opelika every Tuesday from 3-6 p.m. going on now through August 25. The Market at Ag Heritage Park is held every Thursday from 3-6 p.m at Ag Heritage Park on the campus of Auburn University going on now through August 27.

Perch Bead Studio: Head to Perch for a relaxing afternoon of Jewelry making to express your creativity and style in a fun and affordable way. Come learn wire wrapping, hand stamping, and other jewelry making techniques and leave with a custom designed piece. For more information, please visit www.perchjewelrystudio.com.

Coffee at the Overall Company: Come have a date with you, yourself and I at The Overall Company. With a wide variety of espressos and coffee that consists of single-origin coffees, microlots and handcrafted blends, you are sure to find the perfect brew to give you a little peace and quiet. Don't forget to grab a handmade popsicle from the popular Pop Factory. For more information, please visit www.overallco.com.

These are just a few suggestions of things to do, but the calendar is constantly growing with new and exciting things to do this summer! For more information, please visit www.aotourism.com or give us a call at (334) 887-8747, we will be happy to give you suggestions!

 

This week in Auburn-Opelika:

June 1-5: Summer Ecology Camp, Young Naturalist I at the Kreher Preserve & Nature Center
June 4-5: Camp War Eagle at Auburn University
June 5: First Fridays in Downtown Opelika until 8 p.m.
June 6: Science on Saturdays at the Kreher Preserve & Nature Center beginning at 10 a.m.

Welcome to Auburn, Class 2019!

It is here. The moment you have been waiting for all year or maybe even your entire life. Time to head to Auburn University and begin what is sure to be the best years of your life. But first, it is time to get oriented to life here on The Plains and Camp War Eagle is ready to help. Approximately 75 student and parent counselors are ready to answer all of your questions from where do I eat to how do I register for classes and everything in between. Below we will give you a brief overview of what to expect during orientation, but for more detailed information, please visit www.auburn.edu/cwe.

I am a STUDENT...

If you are not a student, feel free to skip this section, but if you are... CONGRATS! Not only does Auburn University welcome new students, the City of Auburn welcomes new residents. I think you will find the Auburn community to be very welcoming and ready to share our beautiful city with you. You will have a chance to meet some of the business community during CWE, but more on that later. The most important question today is, what should I expect?

How do I register?
These instructions are straight from www.auburn.edu/cwe:

1. You must first activate your Auburn University User Account at http://www.auburn.edu/activate. You will need your User Name and Student ID number (also known as your Banner ID number) to enable your account. Both of these pieces of information are in your deposit confirmation letter (sent after you submit the $200 tuition deposit).
2. If you have technical difficulties obtaining your password, please call the Information Technology Help Desk at (334)844-4944. If you cannot find your User Name and ID number and need a duplicate copy of your deposit confirmation letter, call the Office of Admission Processing at
   (334) 844-6429.
3. Log in to AU Access with your User Name and password.
4. Navigate to the Tiger i tab.
5. Look for the Student Orientation Registration window, and click on Camp War Eagle Registration.
6. Complete all the fields.
7. Check your Tigermail account for a confirmation message.

What to expect?
During the two-day session, you will have the chance to meet new freshman, interact with faculty and staff, see what all Auburn has to offer with clubs, organizations and services, and most importantly, and probably what you are most nervous about, register for classes. The camp is crucial to your time at Auburn and is required for all incoming freshman.

Where do I stay?
All students attending CWE will stay in dorms on campus. You will have a roommate, as well as  two suite mates. This will give you a great opportunity to meet new people, and who knows, maybe even a future roommate!

What should I bring?
The following are suggested items, but let me warn you... It will be hot. If you are from out of state, especially not from the south, and have never experienced an Alabama summer, you are about to be introduced to it very quickly. So my personal piece of advice is to dress comfortable and cool. Here are some other items you don't want to forget:

• Casual clothes (shorts, t-shirts, etc.)
• Comfortable shoes for walking
• Toiletries such as shampoo, soap, toothbrush & toothpaste, etc.
• Sheets, towels, & washcloths
• An alarm clock
• A backpack
• Personal spending money
• Rain gear (just in case)
• Confirmation letter and parking pass

For more information on the camp schedule and more questions answered, visit www.auburn.edu/cwe.

I am a PARENT...

Congrats Mom & Dad, you are now an Auburn Parent. Although CWE is mainly for students, Auburn doesn't want to leave you out. You will have your own version of CWE that you can opt to go through. The City of Auburn also wants to welcome you to the Plains and wants to make sure you know exactly where and how your student will spend his or her days at Auburn. So here are a few things to help you get started!

What should I expect?
As a parent, you will have a lot of questions, we are sure. The CWE Parent Sessions occur at the same time the student sessions are going on. You will have a chance to familiarize yourself with the services, procedures and life at Auburn. Each parent will be in groups with a parent counselor to assist you with the process. You will also have the opportunity to have an academic session with your student to set your mind at ease.

Where do I stay?
Unfortunately parents, you do not get to stay with your student in the dorm. This is a special time for your student and an opportunity for them to meet new people and start building a life here at Auburn. Have no fear, I think you will find your accommodations much more comfortable. There are many hotels in the Auburn-Opelika area and the Auburn-Opelika Tourism Bureau is ready to help you find the perfect place to stay. Feel free to visit our website, www.aotouism.com/accommodations, and have a look for yourself, or give us a call at (334) 887-8747 and we will be happy to help you and answer any questions you might have about the Auburn area.

What should I bring and are they going to feed me?
Just like the students, the CWE staff urges you to wear comfortable and cool shoes and clothes. It is hot during the summer months in Auburn, and if you aren't used to it, just take our word for it. On the other hand, have a sweater or jacket ready to throw on, as meeting rooms can get cold, and as always, don't forget that rain gear, a shower can pop up out of no where! During CWE, you will also be fed breakfast, lunch and dinner the first day and breakfast and lunch the second day. Of course you are always free to explore the Auburn area and experience some of our amazing dining options. For a complete list of dining options, please visit www.aotourism.com/dining.

What if I have young children that come?
The Tiger Cub program will be offered during Session 5 of CWE (June 18-19). This is a program for children, ages 6-12, who are attending CWE with a parent. The prorgam offers a variety of activities and will keep your child busy while you are learning about Auburn and Auburn University. The fee is $30 per child and will cover lunch, t-shirt and program materials. Please click here to register for the 2015 Tiger Cubs program.

Well there ya have it! I know you are eager to get to Auburn and start your years here at THE best university (ok, we are partial). As always, if you have any more questions, please feel free to visit www.auburn.edu/cwe or give the Auburn-Opelika Tourism Bureau a call at (334) 887-8747 and we will help you in any way that we can!

 

CWE DATES

 

May 28-29 (Th-F)

June 4-5 (Th-F)

June 8-9 (M-Tu)

June 11-12 (Th-F)

June 18-19 (Th-F)

June 22-23 (M-Tu)

June 25-26 (Th-F)

July 9-10 (Th-F)

July 13-14 (M-Tu)

July 16-17 (Th-F)

 

This week in Auburn-Opelika:

May 25-31: Bluegrass on the Plains at University Station RV Resort
May 27: Noon Toons at noon at the Opelika Courthouse Square
May 28-29: Camp War Eagle Session 1
May 28-31: USTA Alabama 3.5 & 4.5 Tennis Tournament
May 28: May Concert Series from 6-7:30 p.m. at Town Creek Park
May 28: Dan Navarro in concert at Sundilla at 7:30 p.m.
May 29: Keith Moody at 6 p.m. at the Bottling Plant Event Center
May 29: Rock Killough in concert at Blooming Colors at 7:30 p.m.
May 30: Burger Wars from 11 a.m.-2 p.m. at the Courthouse Square in Opelika

How to avoid hearing, "I'm bored..."

Tests are done, the last grades are being posted and the bell will soon ring for the last time, which can only mean one thing... SCHOOL IS OUT! As many city schools are winding down this week, kids and parents are ready for a break from homework, after school activities and all of the hussle and bussle that is the school year, and ready for the easy, breezy, laid back atmostphere of summer. If you are like most parents, you will have happy kids for the first few weeks, and then the dreaded, "I'm bored..." statement is back. Luckily, Auburn and Opelika are both prepared to take the burden off of you with the many camps for every interest. Below are just a few, but be sure to check www.aotourism.com for new camps added every day!

For the athlete:

CAMPS AT AUBURN UNIVERSITY
Auburn University Football Camps: If your child is looking to brush up on some of his or her offensive, defensive, or kicking techniques, send them to the professionals... the Auburn Tigers that is. Head Coach Gus Malzahn and staff have put together a summer full of camps to benefit your child by improving their overall skills, and keeping them from sitting on the couch all day. For more information, visit www.auburnfootballcamps.com.

Auburn University Baseball Camps: Since baseball season is winding down for rec leagues and school ball, why not continue working on pitching or hitting that homerun on the off season. Under Coach Sunny Galloway, the Auburn Tigers have laid a great foundation for the future of AU Baseball, and they can't wait to share the excitement with your child. For more information, visit www.collegebaseballcamps.com/tigers.

Auburn University has camps in almost every other sport, including Equestrian, Golf, Swimming & Diving, Tennis and so much more. For information on all camps, visit www.auburntigers.com/camps.

HIGH SCHOOL CAMPS
Auburn High School also has camps that may be more cost efficient and convenient. Below are dates for athletic camps at Auburn High School:

AHS Baseball Camp: May 26-29 (www.auburnschools.org/athletics/baseball)
Junior High Baseball Camp: June 2-4 (www.auburnschools.org/athletics/baseball)
Lady Tigers Basketball Camp: June 15-17 (www.auburnschools.org/athletics/basketball)
Boy's Basketball Camp: June 1-4 (www.auburnschools.org/athletics/basketball)
Fundamental Skills Basketball Camp: June 8-10 (www.auburnschools.org/athletics/basketball)
AHS Cheer Camp: May 26-28 (www.auburnschools.org/athletics/basketball)
AHS Softball Camp: June 1-3 (www.auburnschools.org/athletics/softball)
AHS Track and Field Camp: June 16-20 (www.auburnschools.org/athletics/track)
AHS Volleyball Summer Camp: June 23-25 (www.auburnschools.org/athletics/volleyball)

CITY OF OPELIKA CAMPS
The City of Opelika has several athletic camps avaiable for all ages this summer. Below are dates for those camps, find detailed information in your copy of The Park Bench.

Basketball Camp: June 18-19 for ages 6-8, 9-10 and 11-12 at Covington Center.
Sports Camp: June 22-26 for ages 5-7 at the Opelika Sportsplex.
Sports Camp: June 29-July 3 for ages 8-11 at the Opelika Sportsplex.
Mini Tennis Clinic Session 1: June 16 & 18 for ages 6-12.
Mini Tennis Clinic Session 2: July 14 & 16 for ages 6-12.
Cheer Camp: June 15-16 for ages 3-12, taught by the Opelika Cheerleaders.
11th Annual Back to the Dawghouse Camp: Date is TBA, check www.opelika.org/opr for more information.

Also be sure to check out the City of Auburn's athletic camps at www.auburnalabama.org/parks or pick up a summer brochure today, and the City of Opelika athletic camps at www.opelika.org/opr!

For the performer:

Auburn University Summer Band Camps: The award winning Auburn University Band is ready to help your child excel in every area this summer. They offer camps in percussion, symphonic band, majorette, colorguard and dance. These camps, while great for every skill level, is especially great for those interested in being involved in band in college. For more information, visit www.auburn.edu/auband.

Auburn University Cheer and Dance Camps: Auburn University is proud to partner with UCA, NDA, UDA and Half Time USA to bring you a summer packed with cheers, dances and stunts. These camps are packed with fun, team building and skill development. For more information, visit http://www.auburn.edu/outreach/opce/auburnyouthprograms/cheeranddance.htm.

Auburn University Musical Theater Camp: Musical Theatre Camp, conducted by faculty and staff from Auburn's Department of Theatre, is an exciting opportunity for rising 9-12 grade students interested in the field of musical theatre. For more information, visit http://www.auburn.edu/outreach/opce/auburnyouthprograms/musicaltheatre.htm.

AHS Mini-Majorette Camp: The Auburn High School majorette line wants to share their passion with your child this summer. The camp is for Ages 4 through upcoming 8th graders. This camp is great for sparking interest in baton twirling or for 8th graders to perfect those basics before tryouts next year. The camp is June 8-10. Contact Holley Mullen at aufamilyx3@bellsouth.net for more information.

Also be sure to check out the City of Auburn's theatre camps available all summer long for different ages. Visit www.auburnalabama.org/parks or check out the summer brochure for more information!

For the artist:

City of Auburn Art Camps: The City of Auburn wants to help your young Picasso this summer. With camps for all ages, you can't let your child miss out. Below are camp dates, but for more detailed information, visit www.auburnalabama.org/parks or check out the summer brochure!

Art For Young Children: Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday 10 a.m.-noon. Ages 4-6.
Mommy and Me Music & Art: Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday, 9-10 a.m. (Ages 2-3), 10:30-11:30 a.m. (Ages 4-5.
Visual Arts Workshops for Children: Monday-Friday, 9 a.m.-noon. Ages 7-12.
Artworks Intensive Workshop-Create a Creature: Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday, 9 a.m.-noon. Ages 9-14.
Masks and Movement: The Art of Masks and Character Development: Monday-Friday, 8:30-11:30 a.m. 6th Grad and up.

The City of Opelika Art Camp: The camp begins July 20 and lasting through the 24. This is the 12th year of this hands on art class and has quickly become a hit. Student will use various media to create masterpieces. for more information, please visit www.opelika.org/opr or pick up your copy of The Park Bench today!

For the explorer:

The Kreher Preserve and Nature Center has a summer full of camps to fulfill the need to explorer in your child. Be sure to check out www.auburn.edu/preserve for detailed information on each camp and to register. Below are the dates:

Camp Discovery: May 26-29
Young Naturalist I Camp: June 1-5
Junior Rangers Camp: June 8-12
Young Naturalist II Camp: June 15-19
Explorers Camp: June 22-26

Those are just a few of the many camps offered this summer. Although I couldn't list them all, make sure to check out Auburn University, Auburn City Schools, Opelika City Schools, City of Auburn and City of Opelika websites and social media pages for other camps and further information on all camps listed here. As always, if you have any questions, please give us a call at (334) 887-8747 or visit our website at www.aotourism.com.

This week in Auburn-Opelika:

May 20: Landscape Watercolor Class at the Kreher Preserve & Nature Center.
May 21: May Concert Series from 6-7:30 from Town Creek Park.
May 23-25: GOALFEST at Chewacla State Park.
May 25-31: Bluegrass on the Plains at University Station RV Resort.